Gen Anbu reviews security situation in Kashmir

Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, Dec 4: Northern Army chief, Lt General Devraj Anbu, today reviewed security situation along the Line of Control (LoC) and Kashmir valley on his maiden visit to 15 Corps after taking over reins of Northern Command.
Gen Anbu arrived here yesterday on his maiden visit to the Valley just a couple of days after he took over the reins of the Udhampur based Northern Command. He was briefed by the Chinar Corps Commander Lt Gen JS Sandhu in Badami Bagh Cantonment on security situation in Kashmir and major operational, logistical and administrative aspects pertaining to the Corps.
Gen Anbu visited the frontier areas of Baramulla, Uri and Kupwara where he was briefed by the GOC of Baramulla and GOC of Kupwara Army Divisions and other local commanders on measures taken by the Army along the LoC to counter-infiltration.
He was briefed about the counter-infiltration measures that are put in place along the LoC to foil infiltration from across the LoC. He was also briefed about the measures taken by the Army to counter the infiltration of militants from across the LoC. He was informed that over 250 militants are still waiting on the launch pads along the LoC despite onset of winter.
The Northern chief was told that militants are desperate to infiltrate into Kashmir ahead of snowfall on the mountain peaks as security forces have achieved major successes against them this year by eliminating around 130 militants this year which is a record. He was told that the patrolling along the LoC and in forest areas in North Kashmir has been intensified to tackle the militancy near the LoC and prevent them from reaching to the hinterland.
“During his interaction with officers and men on ground, the Army Commander lauded their high levels of operational preparedness, vigil and morale and exhorted them to remain alert for any eventuality”, a statement issued by a Defence spokesman said.
Gen Anbu, visited Army’s Counter Insurgent Kilo Force and Victor Force Headquarters at Sharifabad and Awantipur where he was given a firsthand account on the ground situation. He was given details of the operation conducted by the security forces in North, South and Central Kashmir against militants and success achieved.
The Northern chief was also briefed about the Army’s efforts to help the Government in restoring peace in Kashmir valley during unrest. He was told that Army has been providing area domination to help administration to tackle the unrest.
“Complimenting the troops for their utmost professionalism, the Army Commander urged all to sustain the pressure on all terrorist groups operating in the Valley and also to continue with the humanitarian initiatives to help the Civil Administration in alleviating the problems of the people. He appreciated the synergy being maintained amongst all the security agencies which he said was the most critical aspect of counter terrorist operations”, the statement said.